18th July 2024 | Cork Talk | 4 minute read
Coastal getaways, picturesque stays in the mountains, relaxing river cruises – all likely to involve a glass of the good stuff. If you’re wanting to tour the prettiest regions that turn vine into wine, we’ve compiled a list of five fabulous wine tasting holidays that’ll inspire your next adventure. Whether you’re prioritising food pairings, site seeing or fun activities, you’ll find something to enjoy in our pick of the bunch.
For that great wine feeling, add Bordeaux to your wine tasting holiday list. Often referred to as the wine capital of the world, this region is on every wine connoisseur’s list and here’s why. Bordeaux is home to some of the finest, with over 7,000 wine-producing châteaux, producing 700-800 million bottles of wine per year.
Whilst you’re there, book yourself in for a caviar tasting as Bordeaux is also the epicentre of caviar production in France, which just so happens to pair perfectly with Bordeaux rosé. There are plenty of beautiful cathedrals and museums to visit too, including one dedicated to wine, or you could take a leisurely bike ride through the city.
With Italy being home to 453 varieties, it’s not one you want to miss. Tuscany makes for the perfect wine tasting holiday in Italy as it’s home to fan-favourite varietals such as Chianti and Brunello. You can learn to sip like a sommelier starting from just £10, and with wines as delicious as these, that’s an absolute steal!
Not only is Tuscan wine famed, but the general area is gorgeous with rolling hills and UNESCO site of Val d’Orcia that you must visit. Tuscany doesn’t lack on food quality either, so make sure to pair a glass of Chianti with ribollita, a hearty Tuscan bean soup.
The home of Port itself, Douro Valley. Of course, Port is a must try when visiting but if you’re not a fan of the high ABV red, then there are plenty of other delicious tipples to taste.
The beautiful area of Alto Douro is protected by UNESCO for having outstanding universal value, so make sure to take in the beautiful views, glass in hand. Or book yourself on a wine tour that takes you on a cruise through the river Douro all whilst learning to taste like a pro. If indulging in a famous Douro Valley red while you’re there, why not savour it alongside a rich, earthy caça (local game meat) or queijo de cabra transmontano (goat cheese).
Over one hundred grape varieties are grown in California with seven grapes leading them all, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and Zinfandel. The king and queen of them all being Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, which you’d be best trying from Napa Valley. If you fancy enjoying a glass of either at a local restaurant, we’d recommend a Californian-style grilled fig and basil flatbread for your Chardonnay and a classic steak for the Cabernet.
Wine is just one part of this beautiful area in the states. After a wine tour of the region’s top drops, why not take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscape, or head to one of California’s many luxurious spas.
People tend to overlook England when discussing the world’s top wine regions, but you best not forget about Sussex. Not only are there plenty of vineyard tour options, but the area is absolutely gorgeous, and it’s full of national parks such as the South Downs, breath-taking beaches and the mysterious Long Man.
If you’re a fan of sparkling wine then don’t miss out on one of the top British bubbly producers. Our very own Henners vineyard is based in Sussex, and you can even book a vineyard tour and tasting here, which we highly recommend for that great wine feeling!
